The longstanding rivalry between Chicago’s baseball teams, the White Sox and the Cubs, has once again come into focus as the White Sox advance in the postseason while the Cubs have been eliminated. Known for intense competition and a history spanning over a century, the rivalry has featured several on-field altercations and fervent fan loyalty. However, with the White Sox poised in the American League Division Series (ALDS), some players and team officials have expressed a tentative openness toward welcoming support from Cubs fans—albeit with certain reservations.
Pitcher Erick Fedde acknowledged the tension between the teams but suggested that a split season and the current playoff scenario may ease hostilities. “You can cheer for whoever you want,” Fedde said, while emphasizing the value of loyalty from dedicated White Sox fans who have supported the team all year. Similarly, reliever Mike Vasil remarked that while the city’s size allows room for all fans, switching allegiances during the crosstown series would not be well received.
The Sox are preparing for a packed home game in the ALDS at Guaranteed Rate Field, hosting a “Blackout Game” where fans are encouraged to wear the team’s colors. This tradition, originating from a tiebreaker game in 2008 and repeated during past postseason matchups, aims to create a unified fan atmosphere. Sox marketing director Brooks Boyer highlighted the team’s appeal beyond traditional fan bases, describing them as “easy to root for” and suggesting they have become a popular choice for displaced fans whose teams are out of the playoffs—including Cubs supporters.
Several players noted the complexities of Chicago fandom. Center fielder Tristan Peters spoke to the citywide nature of support, indicating that while some take the rivalry seriously, many see it simply as a matter of rooting for whichever local team remains in contention. Designated hitter Andrew Benintendi welcomed all fans but remained nonchalant about the possibility that some might not be fully committed. Left fielder Sam Antonacci also challenged the perception of Chicago as primarily a Cubs town, affirming that “it’s both of ours town.” He shared that he was treated well by Cubs fans at Wrigley despite the rivalry, while acknowledging that Cubs players, such as Pete Crow-Armstrong, faced hostility on the South Side.
Historically, the rivalry has been a defining feature of Chicago baseball, dating back to the White Sox’s unexpected victory over the Cubs in the 1906 World Series. Decades of passionate competition have fueled divisions among fans and neighborhood loyalties. However, some observers note that the intense animosity may be softening amid today’s economic and social climate, with teams and venues more open to attracting all baseball fans regardless of prior allegiances. Bars on both sides of the city have even become shared spaces for fans of either team.
Though the rivalry remains a point of pride and passion within Chicago, this postseason has prompted a more inclusive attitude from some White Sox players and staff. While dedicated fans who have supported the team throughout the season remain a priority, others suggest that bringing together all Chicago baseball followers could extend the excitement of a rare playoff run—at least for this summer.